"Forget any speculation about the Jets using an uncapped year to rid themselves of the utter disaster that is Vernon Gholston.

Jets coach Rex Ryan said yesterday that he is prepared to give the underachieving defensive end another season to live up to his first-round draft billing.

Or, at the very least, record his first NFL sack.

"We need to give him more playing time," Ryan said during a break in the scouting combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. "I've had players that take a little time, but you know that he's got it in him .¤.¤. so we will see what happens."

Ryan did admit that 2010 is going to be a make-or-break season for Gholston, the No. 6 overall pick two years ago who has just 24 tackles in 24 NFL games.

"I think [make-or-break] is an accurate statement," Ryan said. "Generally by the third year, you got to see a guy really making strides, and I expect Vernon to really make strides this year.""